In-Flight Fire Caused By V-Band Coupling Malfunction

The FAA has issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) concerning Cessna Aircraft Company Model T206H airplanes.

The SAIB is the result of an in-flight fire on a Cessna T206H with only 1,000 hours time-in-service (TIS) since new. Investigation revealed the V-band coupling that secures the tailpipe to the turbocharger housing had failed in-flight resulting in hot exhaust gas impingement on the firewall and consequent burning around the base of the firewall into airplane structures. The amphibious airplane had spent approximately 700 hours TIS of its life in or near salt water. Per the recommendations contained in the Cessna T206H maintenance manual (MM); up to the time of the fire, the incident airplane should have undergone (20) 50-hour specific inspections of the V-band coupling and had (10) annual inspections, which also identify the specific inspection of the V-band coupling. This indicates the need for greater diligence in inspection and replacement of the exhaust system V-band couplings and adherence to the recommended inspection intervals and procedures contained in the maintenance manual.

Additionally, the incident V-band coupling had a design feature that is not documented by Cessna to be included in their approved type design. The incident coupling was of a (3) segment type, having three separate v-segments inside the flat band versus (2) v-segments called for in the Cessna type design. The agency has been provided one other failed example of a 3-segment coupling from the field as well. The 3-segment couplings from the incident airplane and the field appear to be the correct diameter. However, the failed couplings are distorted, corroded, and exhibit no discernible identification markings. According to the SAIB, the agency is not aware of any FAA PMA for V-band couplings on the Model T206H airplane that use a 3-segment V-band coupling.

The FAA said the conditions does not warrant the issuance of an AD. The agency made seven recommendations to owners and operators of the airplanes that would correct the unsafe condition.

(Cessna 206 image from file)

FMI: SAIB